25th May 2011

BEAMINSTER: Top award for restaurant

BEAMINSTER’S culinary reputation has been bolstered after a restaurant in the town was awarded its second AA Rosette.

Owners of The BridgeHouse Hotel restaurant have praised the talent and professionalism of their kitchen and front of house teams lead by Michelin trained head chef Stephen Pielesz.

The award was the third in six months for the hotel and follows a “secret” overnight inspection by the AA.

Mark and Joanna Donovan have owned and run the hotel since August 2004.

They said: “This is absolutely fantastic news. Food is a critical element of what we have to offer at the hotel and it is recognition of the talent and professionalism of our kitchen and front of house teams.

“Furthermore, it means our restaurant customers know that when they book with us, they can be sure of the very best food, wine and service West Dorset has to offer.”

The accolade follows two other recent awards won by the restaurant: in November, the Beaminster Brasserie won gold in the Taste of the West awards and in the New Year the restaurant was announced a “rising star” in the prestigious awards given by the Trencherman Guide.

The hotel is now one of just 14 restaurants out of Dorset’s hundreds of eateries which currently hold two Rosettes.

Mr Pielesz, who devised the headline grabbing All Day Snail Breakfast, said: “We have waited a long time for the AA inspectors to call and now we have been rewarded.

“I am thrilled that we were able to demonstrate our passion for local produce and for the flavours and textures they can create.

“This second rosette also demonstrates our skills as chefs to the discerning critic.”

The hotel’s restaurant, the Beaminster Brasserie opened in May 2009 and has built its reputation on local, seasonal produce to present a menu that boasts creative flair and imagination.

Assistant General Manager, Mark Pielesz –Stephen’s brother – said:

“Eating out is about the entire experience, something the inspector also appreciated in making this award,” he said.

“From the outside brasserie to the Georgian panelled dining room, there is something here for everyone and not necessarily more expensive than anywhere else.

“Our front of house staff enjoy their work and I think this is reflected in the way they care for our customers.”

BEAMINSTER: Top award for restaurant

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